Diagnosis of EGUS and Grading
Gastric Ulcers Blog Post
Dr. Lindsay Korac, PhD for Structure Supplements
Diagnosis of EGUS and GradinG
The definitive diagnosis of gastric ulcers requires gastroscopy, a procedure in which a three-metre video endoscope is passed through the horse's nostril into the stomach following a fasting period. Gastroscopy allows veterinarians to
- Visualize ulcer location
- Determine ulcer severity
- Differentiate ESGD from EGGD
- Monitor healing following treatment
Ulcers are typically graded according to standardized scoring systems based on their number, depth, and appearance. Although blood tests, behavioural assessments, and response to treatment may raise suspicion, none can reliably diagnose gastric ulcers without endoscopic examination. Following gastroscopic examination, squamous gastric ulcers are typically graded using a standardized scoring system that describes the severity of mucosal damage. Ulcer grading allows veterinarians to objectively assess lesion severity, monitor healing over time, and evaluate responses to treatment. Although the appearance of ulcers does not always correlate with the severity of clinical signs, higher ulcer grades generally indicate more extensive damage to the squamous mucosa.
It is important to note that this grading system was developed specifically for ESGD. In contrast, EGGD is currently described based on lesion appearance, distribution, and characteristics (such as raised, depressed, fibrinosuppurative, or haemorrhagic lesions) rather than a universally accepted numerical grading system. This reflects the more complex nature of glandular disease and the ongoing research aimed at improving its classification.
